Notre Dame vs. Michigan State: What We Learned About the Fighting Irish

After an 0-2 start, many expected Notre Dame to limp into the match-up with Michigan State and exit with an 0-3 record.

Boy, were those predictions wrong.

The Fighting Irish were in control from the start and walked away with a 31-13 victory on Saturday.

It wasn't the prettiest game, but a win is a win. However, there are a few things to take away from the game.

The first thing we learned is that the defense is legitimate. The unit held Michigan State to only 29 yards rushing, though Kirk Cousins threw for 329 yards.

It was a terrific display of "bend, but don't break" defense.

And for those who didn't get a chance to witness today's game, the defense won the game. There's no doubt about that.

It's a very comforting fact to know that Notre Dame will have a defense to lean on this season.

The offense was a different story on Saturday. After racking up 1,021 yards in the first two games of the season, the Irish struggled to move the ball on their way to only 275 yards of offense.

Tommy Rees struggled throwing the ball, but still managed the game well. His struggles can be credited to the excellent play of Michigan State's defense, most notably the secondary.

Is he still the right choice at quarterback? Of course.

No need to start questioning his abilities.

The third and final thing we learned today is that this team is resilient.

After last week's implosion at Michigan, the Brian Kelly's squad could have hung their heads and given up on the season.

However, the team came out fired up and ready to play.

There was no question of effort. There was no question of heart.

Don't give up on this team. That's the best piece of advice I can give to Notre Dame Nation.